Northbrook Figure Skating Coach Wins National Award

NORTHBROOK, IL — Debbie Stoery has a reputation for introducing local families to the world of figure skating. The 71-year-old, who has coached dozens of successful skaters on both the national and international stage, was recently honored by the Professional Skaters Association with a lifetime award.

"Debbie is the human encyclopedia of figure skating," said Laila Schlesinger, a friend and colleague for the Northbrook Park District. "She has extensive experience in preparing skaters for reaching their goals. She is able to break down skating skills in ways that every type of skater is able to understand and correct."

According to the park district, Stoery has been coaching for 53 years, mostly at the Northbrook Sports Center. Some of her students have even gone on to compete in the Olympics. She is the recipient of the PSA's Shulman Award for Lifetime Achievement.

"Most people who are signing up their kids for classes at the Northbrook Sports Center have never skated themselves," Stoery recently said. "They recognize that when their children achieve success in an individual sport like skating, it enhances their self-esteem and can counter the toxic effects of social media."

Learn more about Stoery and her career at the Northbrook Park District's website here.